The Idol: A Bold Yet Controversial New Series from HBO
The Idol is currently facing significant backlash. Image: HBO
The Idol is an ambitious project from HBO, intended as a successor to the acclaimed series Euphoria. At its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, The Idol received a prolonged five-minute standing ovation, yet this may not accurately reflect the quality of the work.
After its debut, the show was rated a disappointing 27% on Rotten Tomatoes, marking the lowest score in HBO’s history, a network renowned for producing outstanding television series.
International critics have not held back in their assessments of the work by director Sam Levinson. Rolling Stone described The Idol as a “problematic piece,” likening it to a series of banal erotic dramas. “The show focuses solely on sexuality, bordering on the absurd with its portrayal of the entertainment industry, lacking any artistic merit,” they noted.
Hollywood Reporter also criticized The Idol, characterizing it as a derivative echo of Euphoria, suggesting that only the first two episodes are worth watching, while excessive “provocative” scenes seem to over-extend, essentially serving to attract views.
Critics have noted the show’s excessive use of “provocative” scenes to garner views. Image: HBO
The content of The Idol leans heavily into the extravagant lifestyle of Hollywood, portraying a world filled with excess, allure, and turmoil.
The story follows Jocelyn, played by Lily-Rose Depp, the daughter of Johnny Depp. Jocelyn is a pop star previously dubbed the “sex bomb” of the music industry, now struggling to regain her former glory. In her quest for fame, she encounters Tedros, a manipulative cult leader played by The Weeknd, plunging her into a whirlpool of chaos.
Despite the critical backlash, director Sam Levinson insists that The Idol serves as a reflective piece on American culture and the psychological toll faced by entertainment stars. Lily-Rose Depp claims that the provocative scenes are essential to authentically portray Jocelyn’s character and her emotional turmoil.
Since the trailer’s release, the show has stirred considerable controversy due to its bold and expansive sexual content. Additionally, it features appearances from top-tier celebrities, including The Weeknd, Jennie from the global sensation BlackPink, Troye Sivan, and more.
Jennie’s participation has helped The Idol capture widespread attention across Asian audiences, even though her role is relatively minor. The negative portrayal of the character has left fans confused about her image.
Image of Jennie (BlackPink) in The Idol has left fans puzzled. Image: HBO
After the first two episodes premiered at Cannes, the series The Idol is set to officially launch on June 4th.
